In today’s business climate, most Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors and most of their working environment in an office setting. While that number was affected by the recent pandemic, those figures are slowly, but surely, returning to similar levels. Though indoor air quality is generally not an issue when it comes to most buildings, even well-managed buildings can periodically experience poor indoor air quality from time to time. 

Things like mold, bacteria, asbestos, and of course, viruses can all be serious health hazards. While detecting poor indoor air quality can be arduous, there are red flags that let you know when to investigate a potential problem. Let’s jump into a few signs your building is having problems providing tenants with healthy air quality.

Ventilation Issues

A common cause of poor air quality stems from defective or insufficient ventilation systems. Over time, ducts can accumulate harmful particles and growths that diminish air quality. Air ducts can also act as shelters for animals, which can be dangerous for several reasons beyond air quality. By keeping to a schedule of adequate maintenance, you can get ahead of any potential problems that should arise. 

Talk Around the Office

One of the most glaring telltale signs of poor air quality is if building occupants are actively voicing their concerns. In a perfect world, it doesn’t reach the point of having disgruntled employees. In the case that it does, the problem should be dealt with yesterday. Employees can suffer from slight symptoms like dry or itchy skin, but if not taken care of, they can take a toll on the eyes, lungs, and throat. In the most serious of cases, poor air quality can result in the development of respiratory issues or cancer. The health and safety of your employees take precedence over everything. Don’t ignore the literal cry for help. 

It’s Been There All Along

It’s not uncommon for poor air quality to be the result of a variable that until recently has laid dormant. When the office atmosphere begins going downhill, the culprit may lie in the building’s furnishings, employee activities, cleaning practices, pesticide use, or microbial contaminations. Even construction, ongoing or past, can have a negative impact on the quality of air. A regular schedule of property maintenance for everything—inside and out—goes a long way in preserving employee health and satisfaction. 

When it comes to employee health, cutting corners isn’t an option. With Yagla Engineering Services, you can trust that every safety measure is covered and your expectations are exceeded. Contact us when you’re in need of premier engineering services.